Interview with Apiwat Chitapanya

Apiwat Chitapanya ("AC") interviewed on Monday, 19 March.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

AC : I have an artistic background. I studied art since college to master degree. The style of work is a mix of furniture and art. I came into the industry about 10 years ago, starting with the design of decoration, such as vases, tray lamps, then have the opportunity to design furniture for Restrogen, MASAYA and most recently have the opportunity to design for DEESAWAT.

How did you become a designer?

AC : I have a passion for design during studying M.A. of Applied Art at Silpakorn University. It makes me learning something new and using creative knowledge all the time.In addition, I think the design of furniture is a way to reach people more easily.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

AC : I focus on beauty rather than function even it should be functional. Moreover, I try to create a unique work and use the process by artisans. Normally, I sketch by hand and make a rough example. Finally, I talk to the technician to produce the desired model.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

AC : I am excited and happy every time my work is produced as I designed.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

AC : I think the initiative, open-minded, inquisitive, and self-confidence make me successful. My father has been influential in my designing in terms of observation, diligent and loves to experiment.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

AC : I will continue to work on my own design. I want to be recognized as a great unique furniture designer. I hope that my work will be displayed in famous museums, and I wish to work with famous designers and artists.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

AC : First, there must be a commitment to their work, try hard, keep it up and success will come.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

AC : For people to be successful, must know the strength of their own and can be used to create a valuable work, unique and memorable.

What is your day to day look like?

AC : My daily life is not an exact plan. I always design new products, read design news, do my projects and visit the factory.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

AC : I follow the design news via the Internet, magazines, sometimes I visit the exhibition and event such as design week to be a design guideline. However, my designs are shown my identity rather than to follow the trend.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

AC : To know if the design is well or not. If any design could be met the need of the customer and target, it can be considered as a good design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

AC : I used the feeling to make the decision if my design is ready.

What is your biggest design work?

AC : Actually, my biggest work is the Feather Collection. However, I focus on the works equally. Each work needs a special process which I have to pay special attention differently. Most of my inspiration comes from nature, experience, and environment around me.

Who is your favourite designer?

AC : Studio Job and Jaime Hayon are my idols.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

AC : I was born and growth in Thailand. My hometown is Rayong province. My family does agriculture, thus, I grow up with nature which affects my creation. I love to travel giving me the opportunity to visit the great design and inspiring me.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

AC : I always find new challenges in design. I like to work with open-minded people who have a new perspective, responsible.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

AC : As a designer, I have participated in exhibitions with the associate of the state that provides design education to the general public. Sometimes, I was a guest lecturer on design for university students.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

AC : The winners will be supported by exhibiting and publishing works in various media. As well as making my work internationally recognized.The design was judged by the expert jury panel. And you could see many good designs from around the world.I am so proud and honored to be Designer of the Day.

Apiwat Chitapanya Profile